A CLASSIC family story set during the Second World War is coming to Keighley Playhouse.

The group will present Goodnight Mr Tom at the Devonshire Street theatre from Monday to Saturday, November 27 to December 2, at 7.30pm, and an extra matinee on Sunday November 26 at 2.30pm

It’s 1939, the blitz is in full swing and hundreds of children are evacuated to safety, but one young boy doesn’t feel safe anywhere he goes.

William Beech is a shy and quiet evacuee who is housed in the countryside with a grumpy and reclusive Mr Tom.

William starts to settle in the small village in the English countryside, making friends and slowly learning what it is to have a loving parental relationship, when his abusive mother tears him back to war-torn London.

Tom makes the journey to Mrs Beech’s home to retrieve Willie, only to find him prisoner in his own house. Will Mr Tom be able to rescue him in time?

A Keighley Playhouse spokesman said: “Most folk will remember the 1998 TV adaptation with John Thaw portraying the unfriendly Mr Tom and Nick Robinson as the young London evacuee.

“Keighley audiences will see Robin Martin take the part of Mr Tom Oakley and an alternating duo of Adam Sains and Frasier Campbell-Macdonald play William.”

“Director Deborah Mouat is opting for a minimal set, filled with a large cast playing an array of wonderful characters all to which all play a dynamic and dramatic role.

“This play has an abundance of laughter and sorrow in equal measure and will surely leave its audiences satisfied and truly warmed.”

David Wood’s adaptation of Michelle Magorian’s novel sees Sammy the dog played as a puppet by Playhouse members.

Director Deborah Mouat said: “Sammy, who acts as companion to both lead characters throughout, is a vital and very physical part to tackle.”

All evening performances have sold out, so the Playhouse has added a Sunday afternoon performance.

Call 07599 890769 to book tickets.